I recently received a request for instructions showing how to make a paper mache panda. I love the idea, and I’ve already picked out the spot where I’ll be putting my bear when he’s finished.
I haven’t started the panda yet, but there should be some progress in my studio this afternoon.
(Note – the panda tutorial is now finished. You can see it here.)
Meanwhile, I’m working on a pair of paper mache jackrabbits, and I’ll continue working on them as time allows. This is my first attempt to make a matching set. One jackrabbit is now ready for his ears and the final layer of brown paper and paste. The other one still needs to be filled out with crumpled newspaper and the first layer of paper mache.
I’m using patterns made from particle board, as you can see below. The patterns are helping a lot – I can make a sketch or two, use the sketches to make patterns, and then know that the finished paper mache sculpture will come very close to looking the way I originally imagined it.
Paper Mache Jackrabbits, in Progress
Check back soon to see if I’ve got that panda tutorial finished. And if you have any suggestions of your own for future projects, be sure to let me know. I’m always open to new ideas.
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Your jack rabbits are FAB! I can’t believe you do this with strips. I’m so inspired to try out your methods. Great job!
Thanks, Aimee. Actually, I put on one layer of paper strips and then did most of the detail modelling with a mixture of joint compound and the ground paper from cellulose insulation. That’s what you see in the photo of the jackrabbit above. This mixture is easier to work with, for me, than the paper mache pulp, but it does need to be protected with the final layer of strips. I’ll be doing some experimentation to see if I can use the ground paper with flour and water paste to make a pulp that can be used alone. The problem with the cellulose is that it isn’t really a safe art medium for kids, since you really should use a face mask when working with it, until it’s damp enough to stop the powder from getting in the lungs. And I know that most people think of paper mache as a kid’s art form. (I think that means I’m in my second childhood…)
I also just looooooooooove your rabbits. Any chance of getting the paper patterns for these adorables? I am now the proud owner (since Xmas this year) of a new table top scroll saw on which I can cut the wood or as you used pressboard – is this found in the lumber of hardware stores? I believe it is a material which many artists used as a painting ground – correct? Anyway this is one of your really great jobs.!!..
Thanks, Joanne. I didn’t keep the rabbit patterns – sorry. And I can’t remember why I used the particle board, which is quite heavy. I probably just had some lying around, and needed an excuse to use it. For something this size I normally use cardboard. But you’re right – a scroll saw would work really well to cut out the pressboard. I do think some artists use a similar product to paint on, but I’m not sure if they can use the ordinary stuff from the lumber store. Does anyone else know?